Batteries

Lithium battery related fires and general safety concerns have prompted the Department of Transportation (DOT) to issue several updates over the past few years regarding management requirements for lithium battery shipments. The newest updates go into effect on August 7, 2015.

Heritage customers are advised to implement these new procedures immediately to offer enhanced safety during transportation. This notice includes an example of the new lithium handing label and revised packing instructions. Please reference these procedures and the supplemental information provided in your LifeCycle lithium kit.

Heritage LifeCycle customers ship lithium batteries using what are often referred to as small and medium battery exceptions, which are found in DOT regulations at 49 CFR 173.185(c). These regulations allow shipment of lithium batteries through normal mail channels. The exceptions are still available, but more requirements have been added. These requirements are as follows:

Outer Box Markings New information must be included on the outer package to inform handlers of the package content and assist.
with emergency response measures if they are necessary.

Revised Packing Instructions Individual batteries must be fully enclosed by non-conductive liner, in contrast to simply taping the
battery terminals. This can be accomplished by placing individual batteries in a Ziploc -style baggie. Small button
batteries can be sandwiched between two pieces of electrical of duct tape. Press the tape edges to ensure a good
seal around the batteries.

Batteries placed inside the shipping container should be packed so there is minimal movement within the outer
container. Vermiculite is recommended as a lightweight, non-conductive packing material. This typically can be
found in the gardening supply section of many retail outlet stores.

Battery Energy Ratings Only certain lithium batteries are eligible for these shipping exceptions, and the eligibility is based on energy
capacity. Separate limits apply to lithium metal (non-rechargeable) and lithium ion (rechargeable) batteries. Most
consumer type batteries (button cells, camera, and laptop) fit within these exceptions. A battery's energy capacity
will be marked on the battery. The limits are as follows:

Lithium Ion = < 60Wh cell or < 300 Wh battery

Lithium Metal = < 5g per cell or < 25 g per battery

To help calculate the Watt-hour energy rating, please use the formula below.

Watt-hour (Wh) = Ampere-hour (Ah) x volts (V)

Click on battery items below to view product descriptions. Add to cart from the product description page.
A restocking fee of 40% will be applied to items returned within 30 days from purchase date. Items must be unused and damage free to qualify.